Criminal Justice Schools in California

Students looking to study Criminal Justice in the state of California have a number of options in terms of schools. We list here a few of the top institutions.

University of California, Irvine

Location: The University of California at Irvine is located in Irvine, California just south of Los Angeles County.

The courses: It offers majors in criminology, law, and society. The criminal justice program at this university allows students to combine classes and create majors that cater to their specific career paths. The university allows its students to access a variety of internships in the field; including juvenile centres, police departments, the Orange County Public Defenders’ Office, legal firms and more.

The main draw: The faculty that the University of Irvine employs have held various prestigious positions in law organizations and public office throughout the country. The faculty is widely considered the main draw.

California State University, Long Beach

Location: California State University is located in Long Beach, California just south of the city of Los Angeles.

The courses: The Department of Criminal Justice offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and certificates in a variety of criminal justice areas of study. The undergraduate programs that are available to students include a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Minor in Criminal Justice, and a Minor in Forensic Studies.

The main draw: Their interdisciplinary approach towards teaching their students the ins and outs of criminal justice is the reason why California State University, Long Beach ranks high.

The courses: The University offers bachelor degree as well as master’s degree in Criminal Justice, The criminal justice major will appeal to undergraduates who are interested in preparing for a career in criminal justice, policing, corrections, law, or a related field.

The main draw: The Criminal Justice Honours Society sponsors campus functions that expose students to representatives of criminal justice agencies and career opportunities.

Carrington College, San Jose, California

Location: 6201 San Ignacio Ave. San Jose, CA

The courses: Carrington College offers a degree program in criminal justice that is fairly comprehensive.

The main draw: The program curriculum will cover comprehensive investigation studies such as rules of evidence, search and seizure procedures, proper interrogation practices and criminal intelligence.

Santa Barbara Business College

Location: 506 Chapala Street, Santa Barbara, CA

The courses: The SBB College Associate’s degree program in Criminal Justice prepares students for entry-level employment in security and other criminal justice-related fields.

The main draw: The student is prepared for entry-level employment or advancement in law enforcement, corrections, probation, immigration, security services and comparable types of employment. Students preparing for a career in criminal justice and security will study private, industrial, and retail security.

University of San Francisco

Location: 2130 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA

The courses: Students interested in pursuing criminal justice have two options at USF. Undergraduates may minor in criminal justice through the College of Arts and Sciences. Students may earn a bachelor's degree in public administration with a law enforcement leadership concentration through the School of Management.

The main draw: Through the university's International Institute of Criminal Justice Leadership, students can engage in law enforcement workshops and training programs.

Want to explore your career options in Criminal Justice? Get more information using our degree institutions finder at the top of this page. ↑